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leo
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how do I prepare myself for carpentry for starting out?
San Jose CA
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4 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4933
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Leo,
Getting Ready for a Carpentry Career in San Jose, CA
If you're looking to kick-start your carpentry career in San Jose, CA, here are some practical steps to ensure you're fully equipped for this exciting journey:
Learning the Ropes:
Start by getting a good grasp of carpentry basics through online resources, books, and videos. Knowing the lingo, tools, and techniques of the trade will put you ahead of the game.
Consider signing up for woodworking classes or workshops at local institutions or groups like The Crucible in Oakland. They offer practical training in woodworking skills.
Gathering Essential Tools:
Stock up on must-have carpentry tools such as a hammer, tape measure, speed square, utility knife, chisels, hand saws, and safety gear like goggles and gloves. Having these tools at your disposal from day one shows you're ready to go.
Getting Physically Ready:
Carpentry can be a physically challenging job, so make sure you're in good shape to handle the tasks. Dress appropriately for the job with sturdy boots, long pants, and a work shirt to keep you safe during woodworking tasks.
Building Connections:
Reach out to seasoned carpenters or industry professionals for advice and guidance. Networking can give you a unique insight into the industry and help you forge relationships that could boost your career.
Honing Your Skills:
Practice basic woodworking skills at home or in a workshop to get comfortable with using tools and materials. This hands-on experience will increase your confidence as you embark on your carpentry journey.
Prioritizing Safety:
Always put safety first by understanding and following safety protocols and guidelines related to woodworking. Get acquainted with common safety practices to avoid accidents or injuries at work.
Finding a Mentor:
If possible, seek out a mentor or experienced carpenter who can guide you during the early stages of your carpentry career. Learning from someone with hands-on experience can fast-track your learning process and help you sidestep common mistakes.
By adhering to these steps and preparing yourself thoroughly for a carpentry career, you're laying a solid foundation for success in this field.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The Crucible: Based in Oakland, The Crucible offers woodworking courses and workshops for those keen on mastering woodworking skills.
Local Woodworking Classes: San Jose's local woodworking classes, offered by various institutions or organizations, provide invaluable practical training and education for budding carpenters.
Experienced Carpenters: Getting advice from experienced carpenters or industry professionals can give you a firsthand look at what it takes to excel as a carpenter.
By tapping into these credible sources, you can gain a well-rounded understanding and guidance on how to effectively gear up for a carpentry career.
God Bless You,
JC.
Getting Ready for a Carpentry Career in San Jose, CA
If you're looking to kick-start your carpentry career in San Jose, CA, here are some practical steps to ensure you're fully equipped for this exciting journey:
Learning the Ropes:
Start by getting a good grasp of carpentry basics through online resources, books, and videos. Knowing the lingo, tools, and techniques of the trade will put you ahead of the game.
Consider signing up for woodworking classes or workshops at local institutions or groups like The Crucible in Oakland. They offer practical training in woodworking skills.
Gathering Essential Tools:
Stock up on must-have carpentry tools such as a hammer, tape measure, speed square, utility knife, chisels, hand saws, and safety gear like goggles and gloves. Having these tools at your disposal from day one shows you're ready to go.
Getting Physically Ready:
Carpentry can be a physically challenging job, so make sure you're in good shape to handle the tasks. Dress appropriately for the job with sturdy boots, long pants, and a work shirt to keep you safe during woodworking tasks.
Building Connections:
Reach out to seasoned carpenters or industry professionals for advice and guidance. Networking can give you a unique insight into the industry and help you forge relationships that could boost your career.
Honing Your Skills:
Practice basic woodworking skills at home or in a workshop to get comfortable with using tools and materials. This hands-on experience will increase your confidence as you embark on your carpentry journey.
Prioritizing Safety:
Always put safety first by understanding and following safety protocols and guidelines related to woodworking. Get acquainted with common safety practices to avoid accidents or injuries at work.
Finding a Mentor:
If possible, seek out a mentor or experienced carpenter who can guide you during the early stages of your carpentry career. Learning from someone with hands-on experience can fast-track your learning process and help you sidestep common mistakes.
By adhering to these steps and preparing yourself thoroughly for a carpentry career, you're laying a solid foundation for success in this field.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The Crucible: Based in Oakland, The Crucible offers woodworking courses and workshops for those keen on mastering woodworking skills.
Local Woodworking Classes: San Jose's local woodworking classes, offered by various institutions or organizations, provide invaluable practical training and education for budding carpenters.
Experienced Carpenters: Getting advice from experienced carpenters or industry professionals can give you a firsthand look at what it takes to excel as a carpenter.
By tapping into these credible sources, you can gain a well-rounded understanding and guidance on how to effectively gear up for a carpentry career.
God Bless You,
JC.
Susan Stout
Senior Graphic Designer
3
Answers
Thousand Oaks, California
Updated
Susan’s Answer
Hey Leo! I'm stoked that you're considering a career in carpentry. Nobody wants to be a tradesman any more and I'm not kidding when I say that there is going to be a HUGE shortage of skilled builders in the fairly near future, which means you will have a very valuable skill. My husband is a master carpenter (been doing it for over 40 years) and he is already having a really tough time finding helpers who are willing to work and have even a basic knowledge of building.
So I asked him what he would suggest as far as someone who would like to become an accomplished carpenter and here's what he shared, direct quote:
"The first thing you're gonna need to do is get your feet wet, so to speak. If you have the will and the desire, it's not an easy path - understand, construction is not easy; there's good money in it though! But be prepared to work hard and your efforts will be well rewarded.
Show up on time. This is one of the most important things that you can do to show everyone there that you're motivated and ready to work. This is the difference between letting the crew know that you're a professional and looking like just some dude who doesn't care about the job (these types of guys are always the first to get let go when things slow down; the more you're an important part of the team, the longer you'll work and the more they will want to teach you).
You'll want to find the top carpenter on the job and ask to help him and shadow him. He's the one you'll want to learn from, even if he's a little cranky from time to time. Don't take any of it personally. Construction is still a little like the Wild West and not always totally politically correct (ha ha).
Have your own tools, even if just a basic set, and have a way to get them to the job (reliable car or truck). Buy the best you can afford, and you can always trade up to better tools as you make more money. Get a set of carpenter's tool bags, a good hammer, a good tape measure (25 foot), chisel, speed square, pair of metal-cutting pliers, a chalk line; this is a good start. A good pair of work gloves and work boots are also useful to grab. You're going to be a helper for a year or two, but don't get discouraged. If you hang with it, it will provide you a good life. As you become more skilled, you'll add things like nail guns, reciprocating saws, circular saws, chop saws and compressors to your tool kit, but don't worry about them yet if you can't afford them; most jobs have some that you can use if you're asked to do a particular job involving them.
Pay attention to safety! These tools are sharp, heavy, and they can change your life in a second if you're not always cognizant of what you're doing. It sounds like plain old common sense but it's worth repeating. You wouldn't believe some of the crazy stuff I've seen on the job site and people can get really hurt. Be sure that when you're cutting with any power saw, to keep your body parts away from the blade as much as possible. And as dorky as eye protection can feel, it's better to be a little dorky than get an eye injury, especially when you're working up close.
And remember your sunscreen and hat! Because it's going to get warm and you are working outside a majority of the time. No joke, thirty years later your skin will thank you for this.
Also, be willing to think about other trades and watch what they do and see if these are suitable as well. Plumbers and electricians make a LOT of money, and if you can learn even a little about their trades to add to your carpentry skill set, it makes you that much more valuable.
These are the exact things that have brought me a long and happy life of success. I hope that they bring you the same. Best of luck, work hard, learn everything you can, and you're going to do really, really well. "
... and there you have it, Leo! Right from the grumpy old lead carpenter's mouth. Good luck... go forth and be awesome!
So I asked him what he would suggest as far as someone who would like to become an accomplished carpenter and here's what he shared, direct quote:
"The first thing you're gonna need to do is get your feet wet, so to speak. If you have the will and the desire, it's not an easy path - understand, construction is not easy; there's good money in it though! But be prepared to work hard and your efforts will be well rewarded.
Show up on time. This is one of the most important things that you can do to show everyone there that you're motivated and ready to work. This is the difference between letting the crew know that you're a professional and looking like just some dude who doesn't care about the job (these types of guys are always the first to get let go when things slow down; the more you're an important part of the team, the longer you'll work and the more they will want to teach you).
You'll want to find the top carpenter on the job and ask to help him and shadow him. He's the one you'll want to learn from, even if he's a little cranky from time to time. Don't take any of it personally. Construction is still a little like the Wild West and not always totally politically correct (ha ha).
Have your own tools, even if just a basic set, and have a way to get them to the job (reliable car or truck). Buy the best you can afford, and you can always trade up to better tools as you make more money. Get a set of carpenter's tool bags, a good hammer, a good tape measure (25 foot), chisel, speed square, pair of metal-cutting pliers, a chalk line; this is a good start. A good pair of work gloves and work boots are also useful to grab. You're going to be a helper for a year or two, but don't get discouraged. If you hang with it, it will provide you a good life. As you become more skilled, you'll add things like nail guns, reciprocating saws, circular saws, chop saws and compressors to your tool kit, but don't worry about them yet if you can't afford them; most jobs have some that you can use if you're asked to do a particular job involving them.
Pay attention to safety! These tools are sharp, heavy, and they can change your life in a second if you're not always cognizant of what you're doing. It sounds like plain old common sense but it's worth repeating. You wouldn't believe some of the crazy stuff I've seen on the job site and people can get really hurt. Be sure that when you're cutting with any power saw, to keep your body parts away from the blade as much as possible. And as dorky as eye protection can feel, it's better to be a little dorky than get an eye injury, especially when you're working up close.
And remember your sunscreen and hat! Because it's going to get warm and you are working outside a majority of the time. No joke, thirty years later your skin will thank you for this.
Also, be willing to think about other trades and watch what they do and see if these are suitable as well. Plumbers and electricians make a LOT of money, and if you can learn even a little about their trades to add to your carpentry skill set, it makes you that much more valuable.
These are the exact things that have brought me a long and happy life of success. I hope that they bring you the same. Best of luck, work hard, learn everything you can, and you're going to do really, really well. "
... and there you have it, Leo! Right from the grumpy old lead carpenter's mouth. Good luck... go forth and be awesome!
Eric Brister
SEO Copywriter
3
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Eric’s Answer
Ashley gave a good answer for that Caltech has a good apprenticeship program for that. also, if you Google apprenticeship programs there's a lot of them that will put you through school and or training of some kind and then put you to work after that and you get a guaranteed job that way. The best way to do it to be honest it's just to get a job with one of these well-known construction companies around San Jose like Catalyst Construction who's pretty much always hiring for helpers and just get your hands dirty and start working. That's the best way to pick up carpentry is really nothing to it though. It's just measuring cutting and learning it everything the way that everything has to be. it doesn't take very long and people want to developing that for it really quickly. we're good with our hands. It's one of the perks of being adventures on these great planet.
I don't know if you're old enough to work but, here is the link to Catalyst Construction career page just in case you need it. https://www.catalystconst.com/careers/
I don't know if you're old enough to work but, here is the link to Catalyst Construction career page just in case you need it. https://www.catalystconst.com/careers/
Thank you for giving me advice.
leo
Ashley Smith
Senior Consultant of Instructional Design and Accessibility
8
Answers
Burt, NY
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Hello Leo, great question!
For such a hands-on job, an apprenticeship is the best and most official way to learn and get started. In CA, I found two sites about apprenticeships for carpentry:
https://www.dir.ca.gov/databases/das/results_aiglist.asp?varCounty=%25&varType=10
-and-
http://www.calapprenticeship.org/programs/carpenter_apprenticeship.php
I would look at these as a starting place. However, it isn't the only place where you can start. I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity (you help build homes for those that need them) and learned carpentry there to help with my remodel. So, there are always options when starting any career.
Best of luck to you!
For such a hands-on job, an apprenticeship is the best and most official way to learn and get started. In CA, I found two sites about apprenticeships for carpentry:
https://www.dir.ca.gov/databases/das/results_aiglist.asp?varCounty=%25&varType=10
-and-
http://www.calapprenticeship.org/programs/carpenter_apprenticeship.php
I would look at these as a starting place. However, it isn't the only place where you can start. I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity (you help build homes for those that need them) and learned carpentry there to help with my remodel. So, there are always options when starting any career.
Best of luck to you!
Thank you for taking the time to help.
leo